Get in the Swim

Your Daily Indulgence for Wednesday, October 4, 2006

Summer's over. Time to finally get in the pool -- the indoor pool, that is. You may have spent your summer sitting by the water, or splashing around in it, but we bet you didn't spend much time doing laps.

While you might not see time working out in the pool as pampering, stick with us a moment as we elucidate the benefits for you:

1. Swimming is an efficient exercise: It tones all the muscles of the body at the same time.
2. Swimming doesn't put stress on your joints like running and aerobics do.
3. The moist pool air will help keep your nose and lungs happy as you head into the season of dry, heated inside air.
4. Swimming can be Zen-like. As you make your way up and down the lane, concentrate on the sound and rhythm of your breathing. The worries and niggles of everyday life have a magical way of disappearing as you achieve lap after lap.

Find out when adult swim is available at the local pool. Many YMCAs have drop-off programs for kids, so you can go for a dip while your little ones are happily entertained, for a minimal cost. You'll find the time you spend in the pool to be a surprisingly relaxing indulgence.

Just don't worry about your thighs. This indoor-swimming idea is about making you calmer and happier. Plus, you look much better in your bathing suit than you think you do.